As we get older, certain things are almost
unavoidable that we must deal with when it comes to our bodies. One thing a
majority of people have to deal with is varicose veins. These types of veins
are most often found on your lower legs and are enlarged, twisted veins. Though
they are more common in your lower legs, any superficial vein can turn into a varicose vein.
For most people with varicose veins, it is
often just a cosmetic concern. For others, unfortunately, varicose veins can
cause discomfort and pain. In rare instances, varicose veins can often lead to
serious problems. Your doctor can help you determine which treatment options
are best for you.
What
Causes Varicose Veins to Form?
Varicose veins are caused when the valves do
not properly allow blood to be transported. Blood will begin pooling in the
veins and makes it hard for your muscles to effectively push the blood back up
to your heart. The increase of pressure in your veins can cause congestion that
can make your veins twist and bulge.
Many conditions can cause varicose veins to
form. More often than not, they begin due to excessive pressure in the abdomen
or legs. Obesity, pregnancy and standing for extended periods can increase the
likelihood of varicose veins forming. Those who are sedentary can also have a
higher risk of varicosity because their muscles are not strong enough to
properly pump their blood back to the heart.
As you age, your veins weaken, and the
likelihood of forming varicose veins increases significantly. Any injuries to your
legs that cause damage to your veins can result in bulging varicose veins.
Genetics can also play a significant role in whether or not you will have
varicose veins. If you have family members with varicose veins, there’s a good
chance you’ll have them as well.
Tips
for Treating Varicose Veins
Even though most varicose veins cause no pain
or problems, some can be uncomfortable or unsightly to look at. To lessen your
risk of developing varicose veins or having your current veins get worse, there
are some treatment options and preventive measures to take, including:
•Self-Care
The best way to prevent varicose veins or ease
any pain associated with them is self-care measures. It is important to
exercise, avoid tight clothing, lose weight if needed, elevate your legs and
avoid sitting or standing for extended periods.
•Wear
Compression Legwear
There are many types of compression legwear
to consider such as socks and stockings. Oftentimes, this is the first method people
try before other treatments. The compression legwear will gently and steadily
squeeze your legs to help your veins and muscles move your blood back up to
your heart more efficiently. Speak with your doctor about which type of
compression legwear would work best for you.
•Sclerotherapy
With this treatment therapy, your doctor will
inject your veins with a solution that will scar and close off the varicose
veins. In time, the treated varicose veins will fade away. When done correctly,
sclerotherapy is an effective treatment that will not require anesthesia to
complete.
•Laser
Therapy
A new type of treatment doctors are using for
varicose veins is done using lasers. No needles or incisions are needed with
laser treatment. They use strong bursts of light directed at your veins so they
slowly disappear.
•Catheter-Assisted
Procedures
When you have a large varicose vein problem,
your doctor may choose to use a catheter-assisted procedure using laser energy
or radio frequency. The catheter tube will be inserted into your vein before it
is heated. While the tube is being pulled out, the heat will then collapse the vein and seal it shut.
These treatments are common for varicose veins
that are not problematic. More invasive procedures can include vein stripping,
high ligation, endoscopic vein surgery and ambulatory phlebectomy. If your
varicose veins were as a result of pregnancy, they will often resolve on their
own without treatment within one year after delivery.